What Is Arthritis?
Arthritis isn’t just one disease. It’s a term for over 100 different conditions that affect joints and surrounding tissues. The two most common types are:
1. Osteoarthritis: This type occurs when the protective cartilage in joints wears down over time.
2. Rheumatoid arthritis: An autoimmune disease where the body’s immune system attacks healthy joint tissue.
Arthritis isn’t just one disease. It’s a term for over 100 different conditions that affect joints and surrounding tissues. The two most common types are:
1. Osteoarthritis: This type occurs when the protective cartilage in joints wears down over time.
2. Rheumatoid arthritis: An autoimmune disease where the body’s immune system attacks healthy joint tissue.
Who Gets Arthritis?
Arthritis can affect anyone, but some factors increase your risk:
1. Age: The risk increases as you get older.
2. Gender: Some types of arthritis are more common in women.
3. Family history: Certain types of arthritis run in families.
4. Previous joint injury: Injuries can lead to arthritis later in life.
Arthritis can affect anyone, but some factors increase your risk:
1. Age: The risk increases as you get older.
2. Gender: Some types of arthritis are more common in women.
3. Family history: Certain types of arthritis run in families.
4. Previous joint injury: Injuries can lead to arthritis later in life.
Age of Arthritis Onset and Frequency
The average age when arthritis symptoms start varies depending on the type:
The average age when arthritis symptoms start varies depending on the type:
- Osteoarthritis usually begins after age 50, but can start earlier.
- Rheumatoid arthritis often develops between ages 30 and 60.
About 1 in 4 adults in the United States have some form of arthritis. That’s over 58 million people.
Gender Differences
Arthritis affects men and women differently:
Arthritis affects men and women differently:
- Women are more likely to develop rheumatoid arthritis, with about 75% of patients being female.
- Osteoarthritis is more common in women after age 50.
- Gout, another type of arthritis, is more common in men.
Common Symptoms
Arthritis symptoms can vary, but often include: <ulJoint pain
Stiffness, especially in the morning
Swelling around joints
Reduced range of motion
Fatigue
Arthritis symptoms can vary, but often include: <ul
Managing Arthritis
While there’s no cure for most types of arthritis, many treatments can help manage symptoms:
While there’s no cure for most types of arthritis, many treatments can help manage symptoms:
- 1. Medications: Over-the-counter or prescription drugs can reduce pain and inflammation.
- Physical therapy: Exercises can improve flexibility and strength.
- Lifestyle changes: Maintaining a healthy weight and staying active can help.
Surgery: In severe cases, joint replacement might be necessary.
When To Seek Help
If you’re experiencing joint pain, stiffness, or swelling that doesn’t go away, it’s important to see a doctor. Early diagnosis and treatment can help manage symptoms and prevent further joint damage.
Valley Health offers comprehensive care for arthritis patients. Their team of rheumatologists and orthopedic specialists can provide expert diagnosis and create personalized treatment plans.
If you’re experiencing joint pain, stiffness, or swelling that doesn’t go away, it’s important to see a doctor. Early diagnosis and treatment can help manage symptoms and prevent further joint damage.
Valley Health offers comprehensive care for arthritis patients. Their team of rheumatologists and orthopedic specialists can provide expert diagnosis and create personalized treatment plans.
When To Seek Health
While arthritis can be challenging, many people lead active, fulfilling lives with proper management. Here are some tips:
While arthritis can be challenging, many people lead active, fulfilling lives with proper management. Here are some tips:
- Stay active: Regular, gentle exercise can help maintain joint flexibility.
- Eat a healthy diet: Some foods may help reduce inflammation.
- Use assistive devices: Tools like jar openers or raised toilet seats can make daily tasks easier.
- Join a support group: Connecting with others who have arthritis can provide emotional support.
Arthritis is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It causes pain, swelling, and stiffness in joints, making everyday activities difficult. While arthritis can occur at any age, it’s more common in older adults.
